Thailand
Nestled in a fertile valley, adorned with typical Buddhist temples, and surrounded by a myriad of natural parks, Loei is a mountainous and wild destination, much loved by 21st-century travelers.
As the capital of the eponymous Loei province, the city of Loei remains a lesser-known entity in the tourism industry. Its remoteness (an 8-hour drive from Bangkok) acts as a deterrent, compounded by the lackluster attractions within the city center. However, the region's splendor unfolds in its surroundings. The majestic setting formed by the Mekong River, the Petchabun mountain range, the mist-covered peaks of Phu Rua and Phu Kradueng, and the dense rainforests bear testimony to its eco-tourism allure. To delight and amaze visitors, Loei also capitalizes on its cultural offerings. The Phi Ta Kon festival attracts throngs of people in July, showcasing spectacular parades of ghost masks and traditional colorful tunics.
Historical notes
Loei's history predates 1907, when the province was officially established by royal decree of King Rama V. The site had political ties with the Ayutthaya empire and the Lao kingdom of Lan Xang. The province's seal commemorates this history, featuring a white stupa completed in 1560 - the Phra That Si Song Rak, jointly funded by the two kingdoms. Loei was once a dependency of Lan Xang. Later, the Lao kingdom was weakened by famine and epidemics, prompting its inhabitants to ally with Ayutthaya. In 1853, King Mongkut annexed the colony and embarked on ambitious development projects. His son, King Chulalongkorn, continued his work. Loei's cultural center provides a vivid insight into the city's historical, religious, and customary aspects.
Modern Loei city
Situated in the northeast corner of Thailand, Loei city sees fewer foreign visitors due to its remoteness. It is 550 km by road from Bangkok and 150 km from Ubon Ratchathani. The society is predominantly rural; high-value crops (banana, sesame, cotton, passion fruit, etc.) provide supplementary income alongside rice cultivation, which remains a strategic commodity. Gold mining is a significant source of employment.
Local tourists hail Loei as a promising tourist destination. The natural beauty of the surroundings, with temples, limestone caves, waterfalls, and steep cliffs, justifies these ambitions.
To see and to visit in Loei
Eco-tourism is the flagship activity in Loei. The pure mountain air, jungle trekking, and cultural entertainment will help you relax. Loei exudes an incomparable tranquility, far from the oppressive atmosphere of metropolises.
Must-see tourist sites
If you've allocated a day to explore the city, three sites are a must-visit.
Phu Ruea National Park
Located 48 km from the city center, Phu Ruea National Park is a paradise for naturalists, waterfall enthusiasts, and professional climbers. Numerous hiking trails lead to viewpoints, offering vistas of mountains and lush pine forests. If climbing isn't your forte, a driveable road winds through the ridge. You'll need to trek the final kilometer to reach the park's highest point. Camp overnight on the mountain and prepare for an unforgettable sunrise.
Phu Kradueng National Park
Hiking in Phu Kradueng is more physically demanding than in Phu Ruea Park. With no drivable road, you'll need to use your legs to conquer steep slopes and enjoy the incredible view from the summit (1,316 m). In peak winter, many Thais enjoy trekking these peaks to breathe in the pure air and admire fields of wildflowers. Camping or accommodation in a traditional hut is available.
Loei Castle
Visiting a vineyard in a tropical country is like hoping to find the moon in a bucket of water. But that's discounting Loei Castle, a private vineyard opened to visitors by Chaijudh Karnasuta, the owner. Loei's climatic affinity with southern France favors grape cultivation. After touring the estate, dine at the farm's restaurant. Oenophiles can enjoy excellent vintages—Chenin Blanc and Syrah red—while others savor authentic Isan flavors. The castle is 58 kilometers west of the city center, about ten kilometers past Phu Ruea Forest Park.
Don't leave the city without taking a stroll through its night market along the riverbank, near Kut Pong Park. It's a pretext to blend into the crowd and immerse yourself in the vibrant, colorful atmosphere! Street food will delight your taste buds. Most menus are in Thai characters, but you can point out your choice.
Phi Ta Kon Ghost Festival
Not to be missed under any circumstances, the Phi Ta Kon festival is Loei's premier attraction. It takes place in July or August. The entire city revels in joy during the three-day festival. Villagers don ghost masks and flaunt oversized phalluses as a symbol of fertility. The festival commemorates an episode from the life of Buddha, when he returned to his hometown after decades of exile.
Practical information
When to visit?
Like other cities in northeast Thailand, Loei is an ideal winter destination. Most visitors arrive between November and February. Planning a summer getaway is also a good idea. The vegetation is lush, waterfalls are more powerful, and culture enthusiasts have the opportunity to attend the Phi Ta Kon festival.
How to get there?
Transport Co. Ltd. buses ply the route between Bangkok and Loei. There are numerous departures daily from Mo Chit Bus Terminal. If you find the 10-hour journey too long, consider flying to Loei from the Thai capital. Loei Airport is just 5.6 km from the city center. You won't have trouble finding a cheap flight with Nok Air and Air Asia.
Getting around
The vast majority of tourist sites, such as temples, waterfalls, and national parks, are distant from the urban center. So, transportation is necessary. You can rent a motorcycle, take a public bus, or hop on a songthaew.
You'll love…
- climbing to the summit of Phu Ruea.
- exploring the rich biodiversity of Phu Kradung.
- tasting excellent local specialties.
- joining the Phi Ta Kon festival.
